Because of its fast outfields, tiny boundaries, and flat pitches, the Indian Premier League (IPL) is frequently regarded as a batsman’s paradise.
Bowlers are usually expected to just contain the run flow. But some players have turned the narrative upside down by delivering extraordinary performances with the ball.
Over the years, a handful of bowlers have engraved their names in the record books by claiming the most wickets in one season of IPL.
Let’s take a look at the legends who have recorded the highest wickets in a single IPL season and changed the course of matches with their brilliance.
- Harshal Patel – 32 Wickets in Single IPL Season (2021)
In 2021, Harshal Patel stunned everyone by claiming 32 wickets in a single IPL season—the joint record for most wickets in IPL season history. Representing Royal Challengers Bangalore, Harshal used his clever bowling variations—slower deliveries, cutters, and back-of-the-hand balls—to deceive the best in the business.
His tally of 32 wickets in a single IPL season came in just 15 matches, with a five-wicket haul and an economy of 8.15. Though he had been in the IPL since 2012, it was this breakthrough season that finally gave him the recognition he deserved.
He was also a key reason RCB reached the playoffs that year. Later in 2021, he earned a T20I debut for India against New Zealand. With more consistency, he could well become a T20 specialist.
- Dwayne Bravo – 32 Wickets in 2013
Another man who shares the record for the most wickets in IPL season by a bowler is the ever-entertaining Dwayne Bravo. Back in 2013, Bravo took 32 wickets in a single IPL season for Chennai Super Kings. He played 18 matches that season with an economy rate of 7.95.
Bravo wasn’t just a bowler; his dancing celebrations and ability to end games drew a lot of people in. When his playing days were over in 2021, he became a coach for CSK and now helps develop their young bowling stars.
- Kagiso Rabada – 30 Wickets in 2020
Kagiso Rabada made a huge impact during the 2020 IPL season. The South African pace machine picked up 30 wickets in 17 matches, finishing as the second-highest in most wickets in one season of IPL history at the time.
His fiery pace and precise lengths made life difficult for even the most experienced batters.
Rabada played under Rishabh Pant for Delhi Capitals and was in top form throughout the season. Despite his stellar performance, he was released before the 2022 auction and picked up by Punjab Kings.
While he hasn’t replicated his 2020 form yet, there’s no doubt he remains one of the most feared fast bowlers in the league.
- Lasith Malinga – 28 Wickets in 2011
When it comes to death bowling, no list is complete without Lasith Malinga. In the 2011 season, he bagged 28 wickets in 16 matches for Mumbai Indians, maintaining an outstanding economy of 5.95.
He remains one of the top names in the most wickets in IPL season by a bowler list.
Malinga’s ability to deliver pin-point yorkers at will made him nearly unplayable in crunch moments. He passed on his invaluable skills to the future generation by joining the Rajasthan Royals as their bowling coach after retiring from franchise cricket in 2021.
- James Faulkner – 28 Wickets in 2013
Australian all-rounder James Faulkner had an unforgettable 2013 season with Rajasthan Royals. He claimed 28 wickets in 17 matches, which included two five-wicket hauls—an extremely rare feat in IPL history.
Faulkner wasn’t just a bowling asset—he could finish games with the bat as well.
Sadly, injuries and personal issues stalled his career, but during his peak, he was a complete match-winner and earned a strong spot in the highest wickets in single IPL season chart.
